Prostate Care

Most men will experience a prostate problem at some point in their lives. The prostate is a walnut-sized gland located beneath the bladder. It surrounds the urethra, a tube that takes urine from the bladder to the penis. The urethra also carries semen during ejaculation. The prostate gland grows quite a bit during puberty and then doesn’t change much until men reach about 40, when it slowly begins growing again, and, in many men, doesn’t stop. Most men aren’t bothered by their growing prostate, but some are, and will develop one of three diseases: enlarged prostate (BPH), prostatitis, and/or prostate cancer, as a result.

Enlarged prostate, or benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), is the most common of the three conditions. This causes frequent urination, but does not impair sexual function. Next is prostatitis, which is inflammation of the prostate. This condition may cause pain, and interferes with urination and sexual function. Lastly, is prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in men over the age of 50. It has a high cure rate if detected early, but undetected it can be deadly. Luckily, there ways to implement prostate care to protect your prostate gland from inflammation, enlargement, and cancer, which include:

1. Get your prostate checked yearly after age 40.
2. Eat right. Studies show that people who eat a high fat diet have a greater risk of developing prostate cancer. On the other hand, fiber. Soy protein, fruits, and cooked tomatoes have all been shown to reduce risk.
3. Watch your weight. Obesity may be a contributing factor to a number of cancers, including prostate.
4. Exercise regularly. Staying active not only keeps weight in check, but also releases endorphins that helps your mood improve and relieves stress.
5. Don’t smoke. If you do smoke, work toward quitting.
6. Limit alcohol and caffeine.
7. Drink plenty of water. This can help flush out your bladder. Urine should be almost clear.
8. Have regular sex. The best way to empty the prostate is to ejaculate.
9. Always consult your doctor for any other tips they may have, or for any supplements he may suggest.

Definitely noteworthy, are the risk factors that may be present in your life(style) putting you at more risk than normal. They are:

1. Age — 40 and over for men with a family history of prostate cancer and African Americans, 50 and above for other men. Most prostate cancers are diagnosed in men over 65, but it is becoming more common in men 55-65.
2. Family History — Your risk of developing prostate cancer is doubled if your father, brother, or close male blood relative has or had the disease.
3. Race — African Americans have the highest rate of prostate cancer in the world, at least twice as high as white men.
4. Diet — Eating a diet that’s low in fiber and high in fat and red meat, has been shown to increase prostate cancer risk.

Prevention is the best medication. Learn how to prevent problems for prostate care, along with what you can take to boost your bodies’ own defensive sources. For example, try saw palmetto, it’s a great natural remedy.